City of Huntsville Addresses Trash, Water and Power Issues

Huntsville, TX, September 14, 2008, 1:00pm: City of Huntsville crews are working to continue to clear streets and clean debris out of public right-of-ways. Crews will not enter private property to remove debris or trees from structures; pickup by the City will only be done at curb or roadside.

The regular curbside trash pickup schedule will resume as normal, beginning Monday, September 15, 2008. City crews are working over the weekend to assist shelters in trash pickup.

As for storm debris, “…we know that citizens are already cleaning up their residences, and want to provide a place for them to bring their yard waste,” said City Manager Bill Baine. “The City’s Transfer Station will accept yard debris during regular business hours if a citizen wants to bring in their yard waste created from the hurricane.” There will be no cost to citizens bringing in their storm debris, but they will be required to weigh in and out in order for the City to track volume.

For those using the City’s curbside service, please bag up loose leaves, pine needles and other small debris for City pickup. The schedule will remain the same – curbside pickup by the City will continue on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. “We will accelerate this service and add additional days and times as staffing allows, although we do not have a confirmed schedule at this time,” said Director of Special Projects Glenn Isbell.

To request debris pick up or for problems or questions, please contact the City Service Center at 936.294.5700.

PUBLIC DRINKING WATER SUPPLY

Huntsville, TX, September 14, 2008, 1:00pm: The City of Huntsville public water supply is in good operational condition following Hurricane Ike. There is not any boil water activation in effect for the City of Huntsville water supply system. No interruption of the water supply is anticipated; however, you may experience some pressure fluctuations.

“We are in the midst of a major power failure,” said City Manager Bill Baine. “The City is equipped with standby power to operate the water supply received from Trinity River Authority, and the system is functioning as it should; however we do ask that citizens use water wisely.”

For problems or questions, please contact the City Service Center at 936.294.5700.

LOCAL OFFICIALS ASK FOR PATIENCE REGARDING POWER AND FUEL NEEDS

Huntsville, TX, September 14, 2008, 1:00pm: According to local energy provider representatives, assessments are being completed and work is starting to restore power service to the community. Additionally, fuel is being directed on a State level to stock local stations.

“We understand everyone’s frustration during this time of crisis, and we ask that everyone remain patient, courteous and understanding during this recovery time,” said County Judge Danny Pierce. Mayor J. Turner added, “The County and City have stepped up efforts to provide the best public safety service possible, and your assistance will go a long way toward that end.”

Another safety issue with the power failure is traffic regulation. “With no traffic lights working, we would remind the general public that intersections without working traffic signals should be treated as a four-way stop intersection,” said Police Chief Jean Sanders. Sheriff Clint McRae said, “If you’re in a neighborhood without power, check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those who might have special needs.” Both the Sheriff’s Office and the Huntsville Police Department request that citizens report any suspicious activity immediately.

Although no firm date has been established for full restoration of energy service, local providers continue to report that electrical service might be out for as long as two weeks or potentially longer. The power situation affects other services, such as fuel and food availability, especially with respect to processing payments. “If you try to obtain fuel locally, there may be long wait times. Please be courteous, even when others may have less patience during this trying time,” said Pierce.

Comments may be monitored for inappropriate content, but the station is under no legal obligation to do so.
If you believe a comment violates the above rules, please use the Flagging Tool to alert a Moderator.
Flagging does not guarantee removal.

Multiple violations may result in account suspension.
Decisions to suspend or unsuspend accounts are made by Station Moderators.
Questions may be sent to comments@kbtx.com.
Please provide detailed information.

Online Public Information File

Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or fccinfo@fcc.gov.